"But Jesus did not commit Himself to them because He knew all men" (John 2:24).
John tells us that many people in Jerusalem saw Jesus’ miracles and believed in His name. This is not to say that they had saving faith because a person can believe many things about Jesus’ character and not entrust themselves to Him. Some might have had true faith, but most simply believed that He was a teacher come from God. Others believed that He was a great prophet like John the Baptist, and still others believed that He was the Messiah—but they believed the Messiah would set up an earthly kingdom.
Notice that they believed Him because of His signs. They did not necessarily believe His words. As His ministry progressed and His purpose focused, many turned from Him because they could not accept His teaching. The people wanted signs and manifestations of His power, but they did not ultimately want to believe that He had come into the world to establish a spiritual, not a temporal kingdom; that He was truly God; and that He would die not only for the Jews but Gentiles as well. Gradually, the people who foolishly clamored for a sign would refuse to believe Him.
Jesus knew they would turn from Him because He knew their hearts. He knew those who were too weak and timid to remain steadfast in the face of persecution yet to come. He knew those who would turn against Him as it became obvious He would not establish the kingdom they expected. Such insight into men’s hearts and motives came not by human agents but by His own perfect knowledge.
Because Jesus knows perfectly, He judges perfectly. He will judge each of us for our thoughts and our hidden motives. We cannot hide the truth from Him. He knows everything we try to hide from others and even from ourselves. He knows all of our sins. And He knows all of our circumstances, our trials, the difficulties beyond our control that we face. He knows it all. He judges it all with pristine accuracy—and astonishing love for His people.
In light of Christ’s knowledge and love, do not hide from Him—where can you go? Be honest with Him. Ask Him, as David did, to search your heart and reveal all your hidden sins and motives, trusting Him to help you turn and live according to His truth.
Meditate on Psalm 139. Open yourself to God, confessing what you keep most hidden. Have you committed a sin that you have ignored or tried to hide from others? Confess it—He knows it already. Are there things you are ashamed of? Tell Him. Find comfort in His knowledge of and love for you.
